How many countries colonized Africa?

Africa was colonized by several European countries during the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. The following is a list of the European countries that colonized African territories:

1. Portugal: Portugal has a long history of colonization in Africa, starting with the exploration and colonization of Angola and Mozambique in the 15th and 16th centuries. Portugal also colonized parts of Guinea-Bissau, Cabo Verde, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Equatorial Guinea.

2. Spain: Spain colonized parts of North Africa, including Western Sahara and the Canary Islands. Spain also colonized Equatorial Guinea and parts of Morocco.

3. France: France had significant colonial holdings in Africa, including Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Senegal, Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Benin, Togo, Chad, Central African Republic, Congo-Brazzaville, Gabon, and Madagascar.

4. United Kingdom: The United Kingdom colonized many parts of Africa, including Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Gambia, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Botswana, Lesotho, Eswatini, and South Africa.

5. Germany: Germany colonized Togo, Cameroon, Namibia, Tanzania, and Burundi.

6. Italy: Italy colonized Libya, Eritrea, Somalia, and Ethiopia.

7. Belgium: Belgium colonized the Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire).

8. Netherlands: The Netherlands colonized South Africa (Cape Colony), Namibia, and Ghana (Gold Coast).

These European countries established colonial empires in Africa for various reasons, including the desire for resources, access to markets, and the spread of their influence and culture. The colonial period had a profound impact on African societies, economies, and political structures, and its effects are still felt today.